The best restaurants in Venice Beach

What is it? A California-influenced izakaya on Abbot Kinney from Travis Lett, the co-founding chef of Gjelina, who left L.A. to have his hero’s journey before returning to the same spot where he once ran MTN. Because after one has climbed the MTN, one finds the RVR.

Why we love it: Lett’s had a love affair with vegetables since his days at Gjelina, and it deepens at RVR. The menu is seasonal and built for repeat visits so you can delight in Lett’s latest creations (think fuyu persimmon beautifully adorned with purple daikon, myoga and shiso).  Hand rolls are made with precision—the kanpachi sings. Charcoal-grilled duck meatballs with wasabi mustard, crispy chicken thigh karaage with chili honey, and pork rib gyoza are just a few favorites. The ramen’s slurp-worthy, too—the pork and chicken broth is not the least bit heavy or greasy, the noodles are organic and homemade, and the crispy pork belly is just the right amount of fatty and smoky. A DJ spins vinyl nightly, which is a pro or con depending on the vibe you’re looking for. Opt for the heated upstairs patio if conversation is the priority. Having a hard time snagging a rez? Come in close to opening when walk-ins have a high success rate and low wait time. 

Time Out tip: Have a chat with wine director Maggie Glasheen, who has plenty of off-menu sake and wine waiting to be poured. 

Address: 1305 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 5-11pm; Sat 11am-2:30pm, 5-11pm; Sun 11am-2:30pm, 5-10pm

What is it? A zero-hype, one-hundred-percent-authentic Italian restaurant hiding in a modest two-story yellow house a street away from Abbot Kinney. Chef-owner Antonio Murè, formerly of the long-ago Michelin-starred La Botte, runs the show personally—welcoming guests, delivering dishes, and giving you the nonno treatment if he catches you taking photos instead of eating.

Why we love it: Head up the hobbit-like stairs to what might be the most romantic dining room in Los Angeles—low-angled ceilings, 17th century castle lighting, and a hum of Italian accents (generous sound paneling makes it easy on the ears). Murè's OG dishes are untouchable: red beet tagliolini with Marsala quail ragù in taleggio fondue, cacao tagliatelle with wild boar ragù braised for three days in Amarone, Sicilian-style tuna tartare. Novel ones are just as thoughtful—a cream-less rabbit ragù pappardelle with prunes and porcini was inspired by an American Thanksgiving he attended. There are no cocktails, but you won't miss them; Murè will be the first to tell you pasta should be eaten with wine, and the list is mostly Italian and French.

Time Out tip: In the summer, the outdoor terrace, with its succulents and candlelight, is just as charming as the upstairs dining room. 

Address: 796 Main St, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon- Thu 5:30-9pm; Fri, Sat 5-10pm; Sun 5-9pm 

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What is it? A Mexican food truck with insanely fresh ceviche tostada, cocteles, and top-notch tacos—including lengua (beef tongue) and buche (pork stomach). 

Why we love it: A filling lunch here will set you back $20, and that’s if you splurge. Tacos are $3 a pop and loaded with the meat of your choice (my favorite is the carnitas), house beans, and onions. Quesadillas are some of the best in, dare I say, most of LA. Especially the shrimp one. Yes, there are burritos, but it’s by no means the way chef Antonio Gonzalez shows off his prowess with meats and mariscos. Speaking of, cocktails (the seafood kind) come in shrimp, octopus or oyster varieties. But what really makes Isla Bonita part of my weekly rotation (I live up the street) is the fish ceviche tostada. It’s so good, I regularly see Eastsiders in line who made the trek for it.  

Time Out tip: You can text ahead to place your order so it’s ready when you arrive. 

Address: Rose Ave, between 4th and 3th st. 

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 11:30am-5pm; Fri-Sun 11:30am-5pm

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What is it? An aperitivo restaurant and bar on Venice's historic Market Street that plays it cool till 11pm—when the opera curtains black out the room, the disco ball drops, and things get considerably more rowdy. Come as you are, as long as you're dressed accordingly (think Italian casual).

Why we love it: Market took over 72 Market Street Oyster Bar and transformed it into an airy loft with brick walls, a gorgeous 20-foot bar, and a 12-foot glass wall that peers onto the sidewalk for prime people-watching from the counter seats. The lighter fare shines—oysters with spiced cucumber vinaigrette, Italian endives with white anchovies and piave vecchio, and an acid-forward red snapper with stewed tomatoes, olives, and jimmy nardellos. The 8oz hanger steak with charred onion and horseradish sauce is a dish you won't want to share. A hundred-plus wine list and a deep cocktail menu make this a place where you can drink just as well as you eat—start with the improved spritz, which swaps Aperol for orange aperitif wines.

Time Out tip: Martini hour runs daily from 5:30–6:30pm with $10 martinis across the spectrum. They make a mean espresso variation. 

Address: 72 Market St, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon-Wed 5:30-10pm; Thu 5:30-11pm; Fri, Sat 5:30pm-1:30am; Sun 5:30-10pm 

What is it? The upscale, all-day Cal-Italian dining destination along Abbot Kinney that helped usher in the era of Venice’s full-blown gentrification.

Why we love it: Whether you love or hate it, Gjelina has quite a few disciples, and for good reason. Even in the dead of winter, the seasonally focused menu, eaten alongside a mix of tourists, locals and influencers, can’t help but bring in the sunshine. Founding chef Travis Lett has long since departed the kitchen—you can find him cooking at RVR, an izakaya located down the street—but current management has maintained the quality, consistency and seasonality of cooking that Gjelina is well-known for. On my most recent visit, oyster mushrooms grilled in tarragon butter and lemon were as delicious as the first time I tried them. What’s more, escarole season is back, which means so is their escarole salad with sunchoke, smoked almond, and parmesan in preserved lemon vinaigrette. I look forward to its return every year. Be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, Gjelina delivers a great meal anytime.

Time Out tip: Can’t score a table? Gjelina takeaway (GTA) next door has now expanded its offerings to include a good chunk of Gjelina’s menu, plus some slim counter seating.

Address: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Daily 9am–10:30pm

What is it? A first-rate Italian trattoria at the far edge of Abbot Kinney—and the home of pasta maestro Evan Funke’s culinary comeback.

Why we love it: Forget being the best pasta in Venice—Felix is the original home of some of the best pasta on the West Coast. Though head chef Evan Funke now divides his time between Funke in Beverly Hills (our favorite of his restaurants) and Mother Wolf in Hollywood (a concept since expanded to Vegas and Miami, and which we don’t recommend at all unfortunately), this cozy Venice bungalow is where the Chef’s Table star made a triumphant return in 2017, a few years after closing his original restaurant, Bucato. Every night, you’ll see workers rolling, cutting and forming noodles behind a pane of glass—and while the focus at Felix remains the handmade pasta, you’ll also find a phenomenal sfincione focaccia, blistered crust pizzas and antipasti so good you’ll be tempted to make a whole meal out of them. Years in, and it’s still packed, so make a reservation before heading over, or brave your luck at the cozy bar stools near the entrance.

Time Out tip: When it’s available, order the spaghetti con bottarga. The salted, cured fish roe offers a uniquely Italian blend of savory flavors that’s out of this world.

Address: 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon–Wed 5–9pm; Thurs-Sat 5–9:30pm; Sun 5–9pm

What is it? A slightly upscale chophouse along Rose Avenue (with a second, larger location in The Grove) that happens to be one of our favorite steakhouses in Los Angeles. 

Why we love it: Forgive the casual atmosphere and unflattering top-down lighting: American Beauty serves some of the best wood-fired steaks and seafood in the city, plus an array of globally inspired starters and sides. The wood-grilled flatbread with smoked honey and labneh is, quite frankly, out of this world, and the rosti-like stuffed hash browns (which come as a giant potato pancake) pair well alongside any of their simply finished steaks. For seafood lovers, the must-order are the grilled prawns. Coming two to an order, they’re huge, sweet and delicious even before the side of lemon and herb butter enter the picture. The Flannery 15-day dry-aged prime rib eye is one of the best steaks we’ve ever had in L.A., all at a fraction of the cost of most other steakhouses serving the same quality of meat.

Time Out tip: Leave room for the burnt cheesecake with candied lemon. 

Address: 425 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon 5:30–9pm; Tue–Thu 5:30–10pm; Fri, Sat 5:30–11pm; Sun 5:30–9pm

What is it? The stylish all-day Lincoln Boulevard hangout spot that Venice never knew it needed.

Why we love it: Part natural wine bar, part restaurant, Companion is the lovingly crafted creation of neighborhood residents Nick and Dakota Monica, who also run nearby Gnarwhal Coffee. The narrow, well-designed space serves pastries daily and sandwiches on amazing housemade focaccia bread (the latter only 11am-2pm Wed–Sun) before switching to a tightly curated Cal-Italian menu during dinner hours. In the evening, Quarter Sheets alum Jack Goode serves impeccable pizzas made with crispy, New Haven-inspired dough, plus seasonal delights like olive oil cake topped with raspberry-apple compote. A well-heeled locals’ crowd and the lure of vinyl spinning after nightfall have already made Companion a total scene (pejorative), but I’ll hold my nose for Goode’s delicious, painstakingly sourced cuisine.

Time Out tip: Companion also offers its crispy, thin crust pizzas for delivery—I particularly recommend the Klaus (Pead & Barnetts spicy pork sausage, red onions and sweet hot peppers).

Address: 1700 Lincoln Boulevard, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon 7am–2pm; Tue 7am-3pm; Wed–Sun 7am–2pm, 5–9pm

What is it? A beachy, all-day Australian-style café known for its smoothie bowls, wood-fired pizzas and tater-tot-laden breakfast burrito.

Why we love it: Located just across the street from the famous VENICE sign off Windward Avenue, Great White is the ideal pit stop before or after a day at the beach or strolling along the boardwalk. Don’t be surprised to see locals, tourists, cute pups and wetsuit-clad surfers all stopping by for a bite or one of the drinks from the full espresso bar. There are Aussie staples such as flat whites, plus L.A.-tailored items like the algae-packed smoothie bowl, naturally teal-hued with the help of blue spirulina; red snapper fish tacos dressed with Thai-style nam jim; and, of course, avocado toast. Breakfast is available until 3pm, which makes Great White an excellent walk-in brunch option—just note they don’t take any reservations until 4pm. Throw in the vegan and gluten-free options, well-made cocktails and long list of natural wines and you’ve got yourself a conveniently located crowdpleaser. Beyond the original Venice flagship, Great White also has locations in Larchmont and Melrose, with another soon to open in Brentwood.

Time Out tip: In the bowls section, don’t overlook the salmon coconut curry with black rice, bok choy, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas. It’s actually their best main.

Address: 1604 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Daily 8am–10pm

What is it? A trendy, upscale Central American eatery, and one of L.A.’s only restaurants specializing in Panamanian cuisine.

Why we love it: Si! Mon is one of the most interesting restaurant openings to hit Venice in years. If the old venue—James Beach, an iconic Westside queer space and locals’ watering hole—reflected the needs and wants of a bygone, more eclectic and affordable era in the beachside neighborhood, Si! Mon exemplifies the type of place desired by the area’s new set of monied locals: stylish, pricey and intended for those willing to casually drop $150 apiece on dinner and drinks. It’s run by the same group behind nearby Menotti’s and Townhouse, as well as Culver City’s similarly upscale Hatchet Hall. Head chef José Carles hails from Panama City, where his other restaurant, Fonda Lo Que Hay, has garnered the attention of Latin America’s 50 Best. At Si! Mon, Carles generally justifies the high cost of entry with impeccably made raw dishes, yuca tostadas and other small-to-medium plates that distill the country’s Chinese, Spanish and Afro-Caribbean culinary influences into a satisfying, if fairly expensive meal, the likes of which you can’t find anywhere else in Los Angeles.

Time Out tip: In my book, the gluten-free fried chicken, curry spiced sashimi and crab gaucho are the top dishes to order here.

Address: 60 N Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5–10pm; Fri, Sat 5pm–midnight; Sun 5–9pm

What is it? One of the best Vietnamese restaurants on the Westside.

Why we love it: Since 2018, this bright, airy strip mall eatery along Lincoln Boulevard has delighted Marina del Rey and Venice residents with a rich, dark brown pho with strong notes of anise, cloves and cardamom. Simmered for 72 hours (versus just 12 to 16 at other spots), Camp Pho’s namesake soup showcases the deeper, funkier but no less delicious side of Vietnam’s national dish. On the appetizer side, the restaurant offers well-executed creative takes on Vietnamese classics, from a delightful shrimp toast riff on goi cuon to a baby-back rib version of ram rang, or traditional caramelized short ribs. A handful of vegan-friendly items, including two kinds of plant-based pho, help round out the menu selection—and the all-around delicious offerings and ease of strip mall parking mean Camp Pho easily ranks as one of the best Vietnamese dinner options on the Westside.

Time Out tip: For a slightly different take on pho, order the secret breakfast, which adds mixed beef cuts, basa fish, shrimp paste and a jammy egg.

Address: 715 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291.

Opening hours: Daily 5–10pm

What is it? The first L.A. outpost of Florence’s most famous sandwich shop—which you can also find in Koreatown and Beverly Hills.

Why we love it: I’d heard a lot about All’Antico before it opened along Abbot Kinney, and honestly, this is a rare case where the hype is justified. Filled with prosciutto, mortadella, pistachio cream and any other high-quality Italian import you can imagine, All’Antico Vinaio’s schiacciata creations puts most of L.A.’s imitation focaccia sandos to shame. The crusty, slightly oily Tuscan flatbread is the perfect canvas for everything from lardo and gorgonzola (the truffle honey-adorned Dolcezze d’Autunno) to the signature La Paradiso, which combines mortadella, stracciatella, pistachio cream and toasted pistachios into a must-try sandwich. Of course, the lines can get a little long on the weekends, but arrive early—All’Antico opens at 10:30am —or try your luck on a weekday to cut down on your wait time.

Time Out tip: This location also offers a Venice Beach-specific sandwich with turkey, mozzarella, and tomato.

Address: 1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Daily 10:30am–8pm

What is it? A natural wine bar focused on sustainably, locally caught seafood by dark that also doubles as a destination-worthy coffee shop most mornings.

Why we love it: If you think the Venice boardwalk is a living nightmare, then you’ll be surprised that this dreamy locals’ gem exists just steps away from the main thoroughfare. With string lights above the sidewalk patio area, Dudley Market is like the Westside version of Virgil Village’s Melody or Cafe Triste in Chinatown: a stylish, low-key spot with natural wine, freshly shucked oysters and plenty of well-dressed patrons. Unlike those crosstown wine bars, however, the day-to-day menu here focuses on sustainable seafood and bar bites, from delicious crudos to a standout house burger. While I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to eat here, it’s a great option for locals looking for a nicer meal and visitors looking for a respite from overpriced tourist traps. Monday through Thursday and Sunday mornings (8am–1pm), Dudley Market also hosts Hooked, where award-winning barista Nicely Abel serves some of the city’s best coffee, plus a secret menu of specialty drinks.

Time Out tip: If you’re in the market for a glass of wine and some oysters, Dudley Market is your best bet in Venice.

Address: 9 Dudley Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Wed–Fri 5–11pm; Sat-Sun 2–11pm

What is it? A longtime beachside dive beloved for its excellent cheeseburgers and cheap drinks. 

Why we love it: Venice’s most famous dive bar has been slinging burgers since 1962, and the chargrilled “world famous” cheeseburgers here are cooked to perfection. Served with your choice of American or Swiss cheese, plus a little bag of chips on the side, Hinano’s cheeseburger is the pinnacle of backyard-style burgers. The sesame seed bun is just the right amount of toasted, and it’s piled with all the usual suspects: lettuce, tomato, onion, mayo, mustard and relish. Whether scarfed down at the bar or eaten at one of the patio tables outside, it’s clear that Hinano’s cheeseburger is greater than the sum of its parts. You’ll find other no-frills bites on the menu, plus cheap, frosty mugs of beer. Just know that the place is really a bar, with sawdust floors, pool tables, a jukebox, and minimal seating. Expect colorful regulars, frequent live music, and a couple of TVs for game-watching.

Time Out tip: Note that Hinano only serves beer and wine—there’s no hard liquor here. Plus, the kitchen is now open till 1am, making it one of the few spots you can get a burger after midnight and won’t regret it.

Address: 15 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292

Opening hours: Daily 8am–2am

What is it? A modern steakhouse from Josiah Citrin, the chef behind two Michelin star Mélisse in Santa Monica.

Why we love it: This relaxed Venice steakhouse is where dry-aged cuts and well-executed sides take priority over trendy, cool-kid vibes. Charcoal’s signature blackened cabbage is as good as ever; a few pastas, seafood and poultry dishes break up the meatfest for anyone who’s not into steak. Almost everything worth ordering here is kissed with smoke; it’s in the name, after all. During nightly “glass off” (daily 5:30–7pm), sit at the wraparound bar for an excellent $12 burger made with white American cheese and discounted cocktails. While Charcoal’s ambience might run a tad less distinctive than other steakhouses around town, Citrin serves some of the best steaks in the city—especially when chased with the housemade spiced vinegar that graces every table.

Time Out tip: The smoky chicken wings and grilled calamari might not seem like a steakhouse purist’s ideal starters, but they’re delicious nevertheless.

Address: 425 Washington Blvd, Venice, CA 90292

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5:30–9pm; Fri, Sat 5:30–10pm; Sun 5:30–9pm

What is it? A vegan restaurant (in)famously known for its woo-woo ethos to service and hospitality. 

Why we love it: Café Gratitude is always full of cheerful wait staff, diners with perfect postures and glowing skin and dishes named for affirmations so you’ll have to declare something like, “I Am Thriving,” to order the soup of the day. It’s true: When the server takes your order, they’ll most likely ask, “What are you grateful for today?” But don’t let that stop you—embrace it, because the beautifully composed plant-based food will have you coming back. If you’re feeling especially out of tune with the world and need a drink, look for the sangrias, elevated tonics or wine. There’s also a great happy hour on weekdays from 4 to 7pm with discounted snacks like warm almond burrata, grain bowls and smoothies. Omnivores would do well to try one of the creamy, decadent desserts: The tiramisu is some of the best in town, and there’s usually a completely raw sweets option on the menu.

Time Out tip: Whether you’re vegan or not, this is one of the best brunch spots in the city.

Address: 512 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon–Fri 10am–9pm; Sat, Sun 9am–9pm

What is it? The slightly more fusion-style follow-up to a longtime Indonesian restaurant in Palms.

Why we love it: With the recent closure of Cassia in Santa Monica, this strip mall joint is one of the only places on the Westside where you can find kaya toast, the Malaysian and Singaporean breakfast staple. Although it’s available only during weekend brunch (11am–3pm), the regular dinner menu also includes several of the original Simpang’s greatest hits, including bihun goreng (stir-fried thin rice noodles), nasi goreng (fried rice) and Hainan chicken rice. There are also other Indonesian staples like beef rendang and laksa, the classic creamy coconut milk soup, available with your choice of chicken or shrimp. Simpang Venice also serves teh tarik, or Malaysian-style pulled tea—a beverage I’ve yet to find anywhere else in Los Angeles—and a Vietnamese-style egg coffee during weekend brunch that’s perfect for dessert. 

Time Out tip: Most dishes here are halal-friendly and many dishes can be made or already come vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free.

Address: 705 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon–Thurs 5–9:30pm; Fri 5–10pm; Sat 11am–3pm, 5–10pm; Sun 11am–3pm, 5–9:30pm

What is it? A seasonal daytime brunch spot known for high-quality pastries, smoked fish, and its sky-high prices.

Why we love it: From the same folks behind Gjelina, Gjusta is easy to miss if you don't know what you're looking for. Operating out of a nondescript warehouse near Gold’s Gym, this high-end deli and bakery usually has a small crowd waiting outside. Step inside and you’ll find a long, narrow corridor with glass cases of sweet and savory treats on the left, and a working bakery behind it. On the sweet side, slices of fruit are folded into sugar-glazed dough for a morning indulgence; a banana chocolate tart, while pricey, is worth a post-lunch splurge. On the savory side, you can build your own fish sandwiches with beet or herb gravlax, among other options. The chopped salad, loaded with pickled carrots, onions, and cauliflower, and finished with oregano vinaigrette, is packed with acid in the best way. If you’re in the mood for something wonderfully decadent, look no further than the croque madame, made with their fresh sourdough and house ham. Note: Gjusta has stopped including a mandatory service fee for dining in or takeout orders (when you order in-store). 

Time Out tip: If you’re only purchasing baked goods, don’t bother going through the rigmarole of pulling a number—there’s a bakery-specific line when you walk in. Come early enough and you might score a tahini croissant or sesame baguette.

Address: 320 Sunset Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Daily 7am–4pm

What is it? The third outpost of a local new-school Thai chain known for its salty, spicy cuisine, natural wine list and party-like atmosphere. 

Why we love it: In the last few years, the buzz around chef Kris Yenbamroong’s Night + Market brand has dissipated to a sensible murmur. These days, the Lincoln Boulevard location is easier to get into than ever before, but the restaurant’s street food-inspired menu still fires on all cylinders. Salt-forward signatures like the party wings and pastrami pad kee mao pair well with a glass of beer or wine, though you can find Thai takeout standards like pad thai, massaman curry and som tum (papaya salad) with their flavors cranked all the way up. Compared to its siblings in West Hollywood and Silver Lake, Night + Market Sahm offers a little more space and a far less hectic crowd. Other standouts include the nam khao tod (crispy rice salad), moo sadoong (startled pig), and three-flavor whole fish, the last of which is available only for dine-in customers.

Time Out tip: The fried chicken sandwich here is one of the best in the city—but since it’s a meal unto itself, I wouldn’t recommend ordering unless you’re going all in on it.

Address: 2533 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Tues-Sun 5–10pm

What is it? A modern Italian American restaurant beloved for its crispy provolone in vodka sauce, housemade pastas and uniquely thin crust pizzas. 

Why we love it: Ospi stands out for two major reasons: chef Jackson Kalb’s creative, seasonally inspired takes on Southern Italian cuisine and the sense of hospitality imbued by front-of-house lead Melissa Saka Kalb, whose stellar team can make any given meal at this crowded, fairly casual eatery feel like white tablecloth fine dining. These days, you can also find Ospi in Brentwood and Costa Mesa, and the pair also run Jame Enoteca in El Segundo and Jemma in Hollywood, which offer slightly different menus. Most will delight in the buttery fett’unta, made with bread from Clark Street Bakery, and the crowd-pleasing mix of appetizers and pizza (to up the ante, order your pizza “Saka style,” which adds a generous side of stracciatella topped with basil and chili sauce for dipping). But what truly distinguishes Ospi in my eyes are the pastas—particularly the spicy rigatoni alla vodka and malloreddus served in beef cheek ragu.

Time Out tip: Ospi quietly started opening at 8am and serving a few breakfast dishes: the breakfast burrito from their brunch menu and bruschetta-style toast topped with either Nutella and olive oil or ricotta and raspberry jam. Yes, there’s also coffee and matcha lattes to go with your toast.

Address: 2025 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Mon–Thu 8am–9:30pm, Fri, Sat 8am–10:30pm, Sun 8am–9:30pm

What is it? Gran Blanco is Great White’s more mature sibling, who studied abroad (brought to you by the same team). Here, you’ll find sophisticated cocktails, natural wines and a decent selection of Asian-inspired bar bites from a tiny, well-decorated space just under the iconic VENICE sign.

Why we love it: The house cocktail menu includes the usual suspects, including spritzes and an espresso martinis but adds some intrigue with options like a passionfruit sour that incorporates sotol. While the izakaya-lite seasonal cuisine here won’t knock your socks off if you’ve ever visited Japan, or even just Little Tokyo or the South Bay, the food menu makes for great drinking fare, from the chicken katsu curry to the crispy rock shrimp tossed in spicy aioli. The “tremendous” cheeseburger and teriyaki-glazed fish tacos also hit the spot—both dishes are just the kind of meat and carbs you’ll need to wash down all those impeccably crafted cocktails. 

Time Out tip: Don’t skip the roasted cabbage Caesar. Cabbage may not seem all that exciting, but the combination of roasting and a flavorful, herb-filled dressing makes for a surprisingly compelling small plate.

Address: 2025 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291

Opening hours: Wed–Sat 5pm–midnight, Sun noon-8pm

What is it? A Friday-only pizza pop-up run out of a local church parking lot.

Why we love it: If you can swing the limited hours, Petramale Pizza serves one of the best New York-style pizzas in Los Angeles. Based out of the parking lot behind Venice Church, this bare bones operation is run by the namesake Steve Petramale, who originally hails from upstate New York. The self-taught pizzaiolo (who’s also a local boxing gym owner) takes pride in his thin-crust pies sporting high-quality toppings. The pies might seem pricey (approximately $30 apiece), but each one is large enough to feed three or four people. After one bite of the crackly, thin dough, you’ll quickly realize why Angelenos from all over are flocking here. Just make sure to bring some cash—Petramale Pizza doesn’t accept cards—and call ahead to order if you’re in a rush. If you’re stuck waiting, though, the staff just might come out and hand you a free meatball.

Time Out tip: While you can order the classics and the menu board lists plenty of specials, I particularly enjoyed the Margaroni, an off-menu hybrid between pepperoni and margherita.

Address: 2241 Walgrove Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90066

Opening hours: Fri noon–7pm